Pharmacy Technology - Certificates
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Deadline Dates
Program Admission
Pharmacy Technicians are in an unprecedented demand in the Chattanooga area and across the country.
Information Session RSVP - Pharmacy Technician
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job demand for certified pharmacy technicians is expected to grow 12% from 2016 - 2026, faster than average for all occupations. The demand stems from caring for the aging population in addition to numerous new drug therapies.
The purpose of the Pharmacy Technology Programs at Chattanooga State is to prepare students to become well trained, nationally PTCB certified pharmacy technicians in order to assist the pharmacists of the greater Chattanooga community in providing optimal pharmaceutical care to patients.
Pharmacy Technicians must have broad knowledge of pharmacy practice and be skilled in the techniques required to fill prescriptions, constitute IV solutions, and prepare medication without constant instruction by the pharmacist. Because of its critical nature, Pharmacy Technicians must perform precise work, as well as employ good communication and interpersonal skills.
Entry Level Pharmacy Technology Program
Completed in 1 semester
This includes didactic, simulation, and experiential coursework. Students achieve skills, behaviors, and abilities required in contemporary pharmacy practice. The Entry Level Program includes 130 clinical rotation hours. Students who have completed the 16 hour Entry Level Pharmacy Technology certificate can seamlessly progress into the Advanced Pharmacy Technology Technical Certificate Program, which includes didactic, simulation, and experiential coursework.
Advanced Pharmacy Technology Program
Completed in 2 semesters.
This consists of one additional semester after the Entry Level program and can be completed in a total of two semesters. Students acquire additional knowledge, skills, behaviors, and abilities beyond those of the Entry-Level Pharmacy Technician, needed for advanced roles in pharmacy practice. Advanced Level duties include Sterile IV compounding, Chemotherapy Preparation, Immunization administration and much more. The Advanced Level Program includes an additional 70 clinical rotation hours. Students are prepared for advanced national certification examinations.
Accreditation
Pharmacy Technician Accreditation Commission
A collaboration between the American Society of Health System Pharmacists and the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education
Success Rates
Class 2022
- Completion rate - 100%
- PTCB Certification pass rate - 100%
- Job placement rate - 100%
Career Opportunities
Due to our aging population, the employment outlook for pharmacy technicians is quite optimistic. Jobs can be found in:
- Hospital Pharmacies
- Community Pharmacies
- Sterile Compounding Pharmacies
- Home Health Care
- Insurance Companies
- Nursing Homes
- Drug Wholesale Companies
- Nuclear Medicine Pharmacies
Program Cost
| Entry Level Semester (16 Credit hours) | In-state | Out-of state |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Fee | $2,736.00 | $11,443.00 |
| Nursing & Allied Health Fee | $163.00 | $163.00 |
| MyRecordTracker Fee | $17.50 | $17.50 |
| Physical Exam | $200.00 | $200.00 |
| PPD Skin Test | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| Liability Insurance | $11.05 | $11.05 |
| BLS Certification | $60.00 | $60.00 |
| Truescreen Criminal Background Check | $24.50 | $24.50 |
| Lab Coat & Patch (estimate) | $40.00 | $40.00 |
| Uniform Scrubs (estimate) | $80.00 | $80.00 |
| Textbooks (estimate) | $475.00 | $475.00 |
| Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Subtotal | $3,995.05 | $12,702.05 |
| Advanced Level Semester (14 Credit hours) | In-state | Out-of state |
|---|---|---|
| Maintenance Fee | $2,394.00 | $10,033.00 |
| Nursing & Allied Health Fee | $163.00 | $163.00 |
| Textbooks | $125.00 | $125.00 |
| Pharmacy Technician Certification Exam | $129.00 | $129.00 |
| Subtotal | $2,811.00 | $10,450.00 |
Costs Disclaimer
These are estimated program costs. Actual costs may vary due to changes in tuition and/or fee increases as determined by the Tennessee Board of Regents.
Note: College fees are included in the maintenance cost. To view current calculation tables, refund policies, fee payment info, the refund calendar, and more, the Chattanooga State Financial webpage.